Clemens comes under steroid scrutiny, By: Ken Rosenthal
October 1, 2006
Somewhere, Barry Bonds is smirking.
Roger Clemens' late-career surge bears similarities to Bonds'. But while Bonds' alleged use of performance-enhancing drugs has been well-documented, Clemens largely has escaped scrutiny, save for a mention in Jose Canseco's book, "Juiced," and a few occasional whispers.
The case against Bonds is still far more established than the case against Clemens. But one of Clemens' former teammates, pitcher Jason Grimsley, told federal agents that that Clemens had "used athletic performance-enhancing drugs," according to an affidavit filed in federal court.
Clemens' name had been blacked out in the affidavit, along with the names of five other players whom Grimsley had identified as users of performance-enhancing drugs. Former major-league first baseman David Segui previously had disclosed that he was on the list. The other names, including Clemens' Astros teammate Andy Pettitte and Orioles shortstop Miguel Tejada, were revealed Sunday in a report by the Los Angeles Times.
So now Clemens is in the discussion. But really, every major leaguer is in the discussion, has been for quite some time. Without proof — and the book, "Game of Shadows," while extremely well-reported, does not constitute legal proof of Bonds' steroid use — it's impossible to know who exactly did what. That's true even now that Major League Baseball tests for steroids; players still can use undetectable substances such as human growth hormone.
The harsh reality is that Canseco was right — the use of performance enhancers is part of the game and will remain part of the game. No matter how many tests are devised, no matter investigations are conducted, there's no turning back, not for Major League Baseball or any other sport.
Fans will believe what they want to believe, and judging from MLB's latest attendance record, the overwhelming majority is perfectly willing to ignore the issue. But on the eve of the postseason, the last thing MLB wants is allegations about the sainted Clemens, not to mention the other players named in the affidavit — Pettitte, Tejada and two other Orioles, second baseman Brian Roberts and designated hitter Jay Gibbons.
So, the familiar cycle of denial resumes. Grimsley and his lawyer have disputed the disclosures attributed to him by investigators. Those close to Grimsley say he would never "rat" on fellow players. Perhaps he panicked under pressure from federal agents. Perhaps he was manipulated into naming names. Or, perhaps he simply told the truth.
The next current player who admits to steroid use without testing positive will be the first. Meanwhile, MLB's contrived investigation of the steroid era continues. And somewhere, Bonds is smirking over the news that Clemens — a player who is far more popular than Bonds with fans, reporters and players — is facing the heat.
Believe what you want to believe. Or believe nothing at all.
